Damage evaluation and repair methods for prestressed concrete bridge members

The research described in this report provides guidance for the assessment and repair of accidental damage to prestressed concrete bridge members, primarily longitudinal girders. Repair and replacement techniques presently being used have been identified and evaluated. Plausible repair-in-place techniques are included with appropriate calculations and details. Primary emphasis is placed on repair of damage from collision. In addition, guidance is provided for assessment and repair of damage from fire, manufacturing defects, and other causes. The incidence and percentage of accidental damages are included. The guidelines for damage assessment and for selection of repair methods specifically address service load capacity, ultimate load capacity, overload capacity, fatigue life, durability, cost, user inconvenience and speed of repairs, esthetics, and range of applicability. Repair-in-place techniques and replacement techniques have been evaluated in accordance with these guidelines by using a value-engineering process. A principal finding of this study is that the damage inspection phase should be carefully differentiated and separated from the engineering assessment phase.